The Washington Ballet (2017)

On May 25, 2017, Shakira Segundo watched Julie Kent step out from behind the curtain and onto the stage of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Opera House. Dressed in a floor-length gown and speaking in a gracious tone, Kent welcomed the audience to The Washington Ballet’s annual spring gala performance. Kent’s refined demeanor was a departure from that of Septime Webre, TWB’s eccentric former Artistic Director. Between Kent’s formality and the evening’s bill, which included two ballet masterworks, it was clear to all assembled that the company was heading in a new direction. As Kent spoke of her admiration for the company, she asked for the D.C. community’s continued support. Segundo, TWB’s interim Executive Director, was heartened to hear Kent talk of the company’s promising future. In the eleven months since Kent became artistic director, the dancers had worked diligently to improve their technical ability and refine their style. Now near the close of her first season